Creative tasks can help lessen stress

“My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life”

— John, 10:10 (NLT)

A dear relative of mine was going through a stressful time while job searching. Each interview was making her anxious and leaving her feeling discouraged.

I advised her to try some techniques to handle her stress.

She decided to put together a puzzle, thinking this activity might help her figure out her own puzzling dilemma.

She went to the local thrift store and bought a few puzzles at a bargain price.

Her daughter came over one day, while she had her puzzle pieces scattered across the table. Curious, she pulled up a chair and inquired about her mother’s new leisure activity. As they talked, she started sorting through the pieces and put a few in place. They each noticed, while they focused on searching for puzzle pieces and locking them in place, it changed their focus and relieved their stress.

Soon, her daughter was coming over for puzzle time and even went to the thrift store to purchase some that they could work on. This mother and daughter team discovered that they really enjoyed doing the activity together.

Next time you feel stressed and unable to cope, you might consider a creative outlet. Some ideas are journaling your thoughts or prayers, coloring, painting or putting together a puzzle.

Sometimes talking things over with a trustworthy friend or mentor who has wise advice can bring relief. A life coach or counselor can help you discover some solutions as well. Reading a book on a topic about your problem can give you new insights. A leisurely stroll can release tension to cope better. And taking a deep breath can settle anxious emotions.

Spiritual practices such as prayer and Bible reading help give insight to life’s problems. And holding on to special promises from the Scriptures can keep one’s heart hopeful, when all hope is dwindling.

Finding solutions to help us cope with life’s stressors is a step toward the fulfilled lifestyle that Jesus encouraged us we could achieve.

• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author of the book “Letters To A Friend,” speaker, life and writing coach and nurse. She can be contacted at annetteebudzban@aol.com.